Meet the Team
“I am convinced that camp provides a safe and fun space that no other place can offer a child. There are many hardships that children face today. I find it meaningful that camp gives them a full and uninterrupted week to experience love, safety and joy. This is so important in helping children understand their value. Kids can just be kids at camp! I love seeing campers come year after year. Camp becomes a second home to them. My life and my family’s lives have been changed by GAC and I feel honored that I get to play a part in other's camp experience.”
"Even just one week of camp, can change someone’s life. I am honored that I have had so many years seeing the impact that camp has on people’s lives each summer.”
Abigail first joined the GAC family as counselor during college, she has been on staff at the Great Adventure Camp for 9 years. Abigail also works in mental health as a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate at Here Comes the Sun counseling in Katy, Tx.
Jay Barrera is a licensed minister and was a youth pastor before becoming a director of the Great Adventure Camp. He is a Licensed Paramedic and Battalion Chief of EMS Training working at HCESD-48 Fire Department during the school year.
Maryellen Taylor has taught elementary and high school and was a children’s pastor before becoming a director at the Great Adventure Camp. Maryellen has 4 children and 12 grandchildren.
"I grew up going to a camp and realized how important that was to me. When I became a children’s pastor, I wanted those children to have a camp experience so I rented a place, and hosted my first camp. Later, I was given the opportunity to go into camping full time. I jumped at that offer. I truly believe camp can be life changing to a child. Children make life long friends here! For many, it's the first time away from home. GAC is a place they can become more confident, have others care about them outside of family, and they learn how to just be a kid without the worries and pressures of outside life."
Sophia is a non-profit professional and social impact writer who joined the GAC team in 2025. She holds a master's in Applied Anthropology and a BDP certificate in Museum Studies. Before joining GAC, Sophia worked as a social researcher at the University of Vienna.
"Summer camp has the power to distill valuable life lessons into impactful communal experiences. It offers an environment where children can explore, grow, and learn about the world beyond traditional classrooms. I consider it a privilege to help create these life-changing experiences as a summer camp administrator."
